April is a time to recognize, raise awareness, and advocate for victims of child abuse and neglect. Each year, Prevent Child Abuse America creates an impact campaign to increase community support, encourage meaningful action, and provide resources for stopping child abuse and neglect before it happens.
One of the most important steps in preventing child abuse and neglect is recognizing the signs:
Unexplained injuries, bruises, or cuts.
Extreme, excessive, or sudden changes in behavior.
Poor peer relationships, especially with children of similar age.
Constant hunger and/or lack of energy.
Poor hygiene.
Excessive crying.
If a child is showing any of these signs, it is essential to contact your local protective services agency to submit a report. When filing a report, it is important to include as much information as possible. Some helpful things to include in the report are:
The name and address of the child.
The child’s age.
The name of the child’s parent/guardian.
The name of the individual who is suspected of neglect/abuse.
The reason for filing the report.
It may also be helpful to include any other information that you believe will be useful in an investigation.
Wear blue for the month of April to show your support and be a partner in prevention. Children are the future. Knowing the signs of child abuse and neglect may save a life.
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